The Disturbing Truth About Soda

In the midst of the great sugary drink debate, it's good to get some perspective on what's actually at stake: public health. And new research, presented in a nifty inforgraphic, shows that we have a lot more to be concerned about than we think.

From Insurance Quotes, the dangers of Americans' soda habits are in clear view. While National Geographic notes that there's a big difference between sugar-based sodas and corn-based sodas (those that are sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup, yum), it's still alarming to see the impact one soda a day has on a person. (Take note of the soda timeline and its effects on the body: it's quite scary.) But there is some good news: cutting back from one soda per day to one soda per week can shed 12 pounds, 65 cups of sugar, and more than12,000 calories in one year.

Check out the infographic for yourself to learn more about soda and its health consequences.